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Author: Victoria Cohen
Recruiting and retaining talent across different age groups, including Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, and Baby Boomers requires a nuanced approach to meet each of their unique values. In this blog, we’ll dive into the methods to effectively recruit and retain talent from each generation. We’ll explore where to find them, what to highlight during interviews, and how to keep them engaged and fulfilled once they’re on board.
Where to Find Them:
Gen Z, born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, make up 5% of today’s workforce. To reach them, utilize platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and consider exploring newer platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Engaging with university job fairs and student organizations can also lead to promising results.
What they value most:
• DEI, social impact and authenticity
•. Vibrant company culture
•. Flexible working options
•. Professional development opportunities
What to Highlight During Interviews:
During interviews, emphasize your company’s work life-balance, including remote or hybrid arrangements if applicable. Highlight your organization’s vibrant culture, demonstrating DEI and collaboration. Highlight the potential for career advancement and the role’s impact within the broader context of the company’s mission.
How to Retain Gen Z:
Gen Z values continuous learning and growth. Offer them mentorship and regular training opportunities to nurture their skills. Create an environment that values their opinions and encourages open communication. Recognize their achievements and contributions regularly. Flexibility, clear pathways for advancement, and a culture that values their unique insights are key to retaining Gen Z talent. first step in acing a virtual interview is to set up a professional and distraction-free environment. Choose a quiet, well-lit space with a clutter-free background that reflects your professionalism. Ensure that your webcam is at eye level and that your face is well-illuminated. Dress appropriately just as you would for an in-person interview – this not only boosts your confidence but also shows your potential employers that you take the interview seriously.
Where to Find Them:
Millennials, born between the early 1980s and mid-1990s, make up 35% of today’s workforce. They are active on professional platforms like LinkedIn and job boards such as Indeed. Engaging with industry-specific online forums, attending virtual networking events, and hosting webinars can also help you connect with Millennial candidates.
What they value most:
•. Work-life balance and flexible work arrangements
• Innovation, creativity, and making an impact
• Clear paths for career progression and leadership opportunities
•. Compensation and benefits
What to Highlight in Interviews:
In interviews, spotlight your company’s commitment to remote and hybrid work options that align with their quest for work-life balance. Emphasize your organization’s inclusive culture and its role in driving positive change. Highlight career growth opportunities and showcase successful career trajectories within your company.
How to Retain Millennials:
Millennials thrive on purpose-driven work. Align their roles with the company’s mission and provide avenues for skill enhancement. Implement mentorship programs and regular feedback sessions. Offer a clear path for career progression, and provide opportunities to take on leadership roles. Address their need for work-life balance through flexible arrangements and create a supportive environment.
Where to Find Them:
Gen X, born between the mid-1960s and early 1980s, make up 33% of today’s workforce. They can be discovered through a mix of traditional and digital channels. Engage them through LinkedIn, Indeed, and leverage industry-specific events, both in-person and virtual, to connect with this experienced demographic.
What they value most:
•. Work-life balance
•. Autonomy
•. Bonuses and stock options
•. Friendly, flexible and collaborative company cultures
What to Highlight in Interviews:
During interviews, stress your company’s stability and its commitment to fostering a healthy work environment. Highlight your company’s track record of promoting from within and creating opportunities for career growth. Showcase the strong interpersonal connections and sense of camaraderie within your team.
How to Retain Gen X:
Gen X values work-life balance and autonomy. Offer flexibility in work arrangements and respect their need for personal time. Encourage them to share their expertise and provide mentorship opportunities. Recognize their achievements and contributions through regular feedback. Provide avenues for professional development and opportunities to take on challenging projects.
Where to Find Them:
Baby Boomers, born between the mid-1940s and early 1960s make up 25% of today’s workforce. They often respond well to personal referrals and industry-specific networking events. Engaging in networking and industry-specific events are great ways to find talent in this generation.
What they value most:
•. Compensation/benefits and retirement packages
•. Security and stability
•. Opportunities to mentor and receiving recognition/appreciation
•. Authority
What to Highlight in Interviews:
During interviews, emphasize your company’s reputation for stability and its commitment to creating a respectful and supportive work environment. Highlight opportunities for them to leverage their wealth of experience and mentor younger employees. Emphasize compensation and benefits packages, as well as retirement options, as these aspects resonate strongly with Baby Boomers who place a high value on their financial security and future planning.
How to Retain Baby Boomers:
Baby Boomers appreciate recognition for their contributions. Provide platforms for them to share their insights and involve them in decision-making processes. Offer mentorship opportunities and create an environment that values their wisdom. Provide flexible work arrangements and ensure they feel valued for their expertise and dedication.